The small town of Franz Josef packs a mighty punch when it comes to outdoor adventures. The absolute best experiences here revolve around the magnificent glacier and surrounding wilderness. My favorite picks include the helicopter tours – they’re splurge-worthy for their jaw-dropping aerial views of the Southern Alps. The guided glacier hikes are unforgettable, letting you safely explore ice caves and crevasses with expert guides. For a gentler but equally rewarding outing, the Lake Mapourika kayak tours offer peaceful paddling while spotting rare birds in pristine rainforest settings. I’m especially fond of the smaller operators who really know their stuff and provide top-notch gear. Let’s explore the standout tours that make Franz Josef special.
Key Points
- Franz Josef Grand Tour offers a 40-minute helicopter flight with views of the region’s stunning glaciers and snowfields.
- Fox Glacier Tour provides a 3.5-hour guided walking experience in Westland Tai Poutini National Park with insights into the local geology, flora, and fauna.
- The Half-Day Glacier Tour combines a guided glacier trek with a helicopter flight for a comprehensive 4-hour glacier experience.
- Lake Mapourika Kayak Tour allows visitors to explore the protected Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary and capture stunning photos of the Southern Alps and Jurassic rainforest.
- The Kayak & Walking Tour offers a 4-hour excursion that combines kayaking and rainforest exploration, providing the opportunity to search for kiwi birds and diverse wildlife.
Franz Josef: the Grand Tour by Helicopter With Snow Landing
For those seeking an unforgettable aerial adventure, the “Franz Josef: The Grand Tour by Helicopter with Snow Landing” delivers an unparalleled experience. This 40-minute tour offers a bird’s-eye view of the stunning glaciers, mountains, and landscapes of the region.
Soaring over the Fox, Franz Josef, and Tasman glaciers, passengers will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Southern Alps, including the majestic Mount Cook and Mount Tasman.
The tour includes a scenic snow landing, providing 8-10 minutes to revel in the serene snowfields. Throughout the flight, knowledgeable commentary is provided, and participants can listen via headsets.
With a price from $321.05 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for those visiting Franz Josef. Accessibility is also a highlight, as the tour is wheelchair-friendly.
Travelers are advised to pack sunglasses and a camera to capture the stunning photo opportunities this aerial adventure provides.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: the Grand Tour by Helicopter With Snow Landing Review
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Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour With Local Guide
The Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour with Local Guide offers visitors an engaging and educational exploration of the stunning Westland Tai Poutini National Park. This 3.5-hour tour departs from the Glacier Valley Eco Tours base in Franz Josef Glacier, with pickup options in Fox Glacier.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour highlights the area’s geology, glaciation, flora, and fauna, providing valuable insights. Participants will enjoy scenic walks, captivating views of Fox Glacier, Fox Neve, and Mt Tasman, and the opportunity to dip their hands in a geothermal spring.
The tour includes rain gear, walking poles, and hot drinks, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Families will appreciate the Macpac Baby Carrier for toddlers under 3.
With a group size limited to 10 participants, this tour offers a personalized and intimate exploration of the natural wonders surrounding Fox Glacier. Priced at $58.63 per person, it provides excellent value for money and has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past guests.
Read our full review: Fox Glacier: Half Day Walking & Nature Tour With Local Guide Review
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Franz Josef: Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour
This 4-hour Franz Josef: Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking Franz Josef Glacier within Westland National Park.
Priced from $443.89 per person, the tour includes a guided glacier trek, a panoramic helicopter flight, and a landing directly on the glacier. Participants can expect to learn about the region’s history and rugged terrain while taking in stunning views of the glacier’s stunning ice formations and colors.
The tour is led by professional guides and includes all necessary equipment like crampons and glacier boots.
However, it’s not suitable for children under 10 or individuals under 4’6″ or over 254 lbs. Participants should dress warmly and bring water, as food and drinks aren’t included.
With a 4.6/5 rating based on 191 reviews, this tour offers excellent value, with positive feedback highlighting the safety and quality of the experience.
Visitors are advised to book early to accommodate potential weather delays.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: Half-Day Glacier Helicopter and Hiking Tour Review
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Franz Josef Town: Glacier Helicopter Tour With Snow Landing
Offering a thrilling aerial perspective of the Franz Josef Glacier, the Glacier Helicopter Tour with Snow Landing provides visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Westland National Park.
Priced from $190.96 per person, this 25-minute helicopter flight offers a safety briefing, experienced pilot commentary, and the chance to land on an elevated snow site for stunning views of New Zealand’s highest peaks.
The tour highlights include soaring over the glacier’s ice pinnacles and crevasses, as well as a 10-minute snow landing for photo opportunities.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 387 reviews, customers praise the unforgettable experience, wonderful crew, and informative pilot.
While weather conditions may impact the flight route, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests are advised to bring sunglasses, a camera, and closed-toe shoes, as large bags and mobility devices aren’t permitted.
Read our full review: Franz Josef Town: Glacier Helicopter Tour With Snow Landing Review
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Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika
Although the Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika takes just 3 hours to complete, it offers participants an immersive adventure through the stunning Westland National Park.
For $80.96 per person, paddlers can glide across the serene Lake Mapourika, soaking in views of the Southern Alps, glaciers, and Jurassic rainforest. The tour also explores the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, a protected habitat for the endangered kiwi bird.
Complimentary transport, experienced guides, and all necessary gear are included, making this an accessible way to experience the region’s natural beauty. Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall value, with a 4.7/5 rating for guides and 4.7/5 for value.
Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure, the Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour is a must-do activity during your time in Franz Josef Town.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: 3-Hour Kayak Tour on Lake Mapourika Review
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Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary
For adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy Franz Josef’s stunning natural landscapes, the Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary presents an unparalleled opportunity.
This 4-hour excursion combines the serenity of kayaking across Lake Mapourika‘s pristine waters with the thrill of exploring the exclusive Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Guests will marvel at the majestic Southern Alps and glaciers as they paddle, then venture into the rainforest trail in search of the elusive kiwi bird and diverse birdlife.
Complimentary tea, coffee, and free photos add to the experience’s value. With high-quality equipment provided and knowledgeable guides, the tour offers excellent value at €89.59 per person.
Rated 4.9/5 by previous customers, this tour is likely to sell out quickly. Participants should dress in warm layers and comfortable shoes, as the weather-proof excursion isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Franz Josef: Kayak & Walking Tour to Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary Review
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Sum Up
Franz Josef offers a range of exciting glacier and nature tours. Visitors can soar over the stunning landscapes by helicopter, trek through the glaciers, or paddle through serene lakes and sanctuaries. With so many options, travelers can easily find the perfect tour to suit their interests and experience levels in this breathtaking New Zealand destination.